By Atoyebi Nike
A member of the United States Congress, Rep. Barry Moore, has said President Donald Trump and lawmakers from both parties are firmly aligned in their commitment to ending the persistent violence against Christians in Nigeria.
Moore issued the statement after a closed-door meeting in Washington, D.C., with a Nigerian government delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. The discussion focused on Nigeria’s worsening security situation, allegations of ongoing persecution of Christians, and the need for stronger cooperation between both countries.
According to the congressman, the U.S. is ready to work closely with Nigeria to dismantle terrorist networks and curb sectarian violence but expects Abuja to show real, measurable progress. He described the engagement as “frank, honest, and productive.”
During the meeting, Ribadu and senior officials outlined the challenges confronting Nigeria, including attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP, rising militia and bandit violence, inadequate security resources, threats to vulnerable communities especially Christians, and the need for increased U.S. intelligence and military support.
Moore reiterated that Washington, under President Trump, is taking a firm stance on global religious persecution. He stressed that the U.S. must take concrete steps to protect Christian communities and reduce extremist attacks.
The meeting signals a new phase in U.S.–Nigeria relations as Washington reassesses global security priorities. Moore said Nigeria has an opportunity to strengthen ties by demonstrating progress on security and human rights.
Tensions between both nations have intensified in recent months. In October, President Trump accused the Tinubu administration of failing to stop widespread killings of Christians and threatened possible military action. U.S. House Appropriations leaders also described Nigeria as “the most dangerous nation on Earth to follow Christ.” Earlier this month, reports indicated that the U.S. military had developed contingency plans for potential operations in Nigeria following Trump’s directive.
